Daijiworld Media Network - Kathmandu

Kathmandu, Aug 30: India has handed over relief materials for flood victims in Nepal brought by its fourth flight carrying relief supplies, as rescue and relief operations continue in the flood-hit country.

“The fourth flight carrying 11 tonnes of relief supplies has arrived in Nepal, with the materials handed over to the concerned authorities as part of ongoing support following the devastating floods,” the Indian External Affairs Ministry said.

The consignment includes a tunnel technical team equipped with search-and-rescue equipment, along with a team of forensic experts and equipment for DNA analysis.

The relief supplies include blankets, sleeping bags, tarpaulins, plastic sheets and hygiene kits.

Earlier, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar said on social media platform X that the fourth Indian flight had landed in Kathmandu.

“It brings essential supplies and technical capabilities to support Nepal’s ongoing rescue and relief operations,” he wrote.

Before the Indian Air Force (IAF) C-130 aircraft departed for Nepal, Jaishankar said it was carrying a tunnel technical contingent equipped with search-and-rescue equipment, forensic experts and equipment for DNA analysis, besides relief supplies.

The minister also said 16 trucks carrying equipment for a 230-foot single-lane modular steel bridge had reached Nepal.

Equipment for the installation of seven more Bailey bridges would soon be supplied, while technical teams to install them are expected to arrive shortly, he said.

According to the External Affairs Ministry, a total of 68.5 tonnes of relief materials comprising essential medicines, portable generator sets, food packets, water purification tablets and technical equipment have so far been airlifted to Kathmandu.

“Our support to the relief and rescue efforts continues,” Jaishankar said.

Meanwhile, Nepal's National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA) said the massive floods on August 26 have so far claimed 734 lives, while 2,498 people remain out of contact, including 589 foreigners.